Unlike some historic properties that DevelopSpringfield has targeted for restoration – notably the 1841 Greek Revival style home at 86 Maple St. – the Gunn Block at the corner of State and Walnut streets, isn’t much of a looker.

The three-story 1830 masonry structure – last used as a bar with the upper two floors serving as apartments – looks pretty forlorn.

But as far as its historic significance, the structure has no equal. The building – condemned by the city last year and vacant for at least three years – is believed to be the oldest commercial building in Springfield.

That’s why we’re thrilled that DevelopSpringfield, the nonprofit corporation formed in 2008 to advance development and redevelopment projects to support economic growth and city revitalization, has acquired the Gunn Block and is adding it to the list of revitalization projects.

Other projects the group has recently undertaken include the restoration of the deteriorated, vacant Maple Street mansion built in 1841 for Solymon Merrick, the inventor of the monkey wrench. It was later the residence of Ansel Phelps, the fourth mayor of Springfield.

DevelopSpringfield also acquired the former River Inn at 700 State Street and has demolished it to make way for new development.

Jay Minkarah, DevelopSpringfield’s president and chief executive officer, called the Gunn Block one of the city’s most significant buildings. “Though it is in a prominent location on State Street across from Springfield Technical Community College and the Technology Park, its deteriorated condition and the highly visible red X on the front send exactly the wrong message about Springfield,” he said.

Again, we salute DevelopSpringfield for recognizing and preserving the city’s past as it continues to push on toward a brighter future.